Brown, who is fighting for his political survival at home, was meant to be enjoying a few hours' respite in Normandy with US President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Prince Charles.

"And so next to Obama beach we join President Obama in paying particular tribute to the spectacular bravery of American soliders who gave their lives on Omaha beach," Brown said, almost stumbling again when he said Omaha the second time.

No correction was made and Brown went on to give a gracious tribute to the "sacrifice and valour" of those who died in the World War II landings 65 years ago.